Executive Officer, Indigenous (S51)

Job Reference: 1165579

At Curtin we are committed to embedding the voices and perspectives of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples at the forefront of our decision-making to create an environment in which everyone thrives.

In line with Curtin’s 2030 Strategic Plan, Curtin University is committed to optimising employment outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. In an effort to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait representation in the University, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply for this role, pursuant to Section 51 of the Equal Opportunity Act 1984 (WA).

About the Role:
Play a defining role in how Curtin embeds Indigenous perspectives into its research future. As Executive Officer, you will be instrumental in shaping the University's approach to Indigenous research, driving the integration of Indigenous knowledges and practices into our research practices and helping to ensure that every project is culturally respectful and impactful. You will collaborate with top academics, the Centre for Aboriginal Studies (CAS), Deans of Indigenous Engagement, and the Research Office to ignite a university-wide movement for Indigenous research excellence.

You will also be instrumental in finalising and implementing Curtin’s Indigenous Research Framework, helping us lead the way in diversity, inclusion, and belonging. If you're passionate about making a bold impact and championing cultural change, this is your chance to shape the future at Curtin!

This is a full time (1.0 FTE), permanent role. Although, we are open to considering job-sharing/part time arrangements for the right candidates and encourage you to discuss your preferred working pattern with us in your application and interview.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Provide expert strategic advice to the DVC Research on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander research issues, ensuring university policies and practices are inclusive, culturally respectful, and support the success of HDR students, researchers, and communities.
• Guide the development, implementation, and evaluation of university-wide strategies, policies, and programs focused on Indigenous research and researcher outcomes, fostering excellence in Indigenous research practices.
• Advise on the development and implementation of the Curtin Indigenous Research Framework, aligning with Universities Australia’s Indigenous Strategy and driving strategic initiatives in Indigenous research.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to build networks and partnerships, facilitating the exchange of information and promoting the successful implementation of the Curtin Indigenous Research Framework.
• Support and mentor Indigenous staff and HDR students, creating an inclusive workplace culture, fostering professional development, and ensuring continuous improvement in Indigenous research practices at Curtin.

Who we are looking for (Selection Criteria):

• Relevant formal qualifications and extensive experience; or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education/training.
• Deep knowledge and understandingof Indigenous societies, cultures, and issues affecting Indigenous Australians, with proven ability to engage sensitively and effectively with a diverse range of Indigenous stakeholders, including staff, students, Elders, community groups, and organisations.
• Proven ability to manage, collaborate, and influenceat senior university levels and within government, community, and industry forums.
• Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and negotiation skills, demonstrated in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous contexts.
• Strong connectionswith Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community groups and professional organisations.
• Comprehensive understandingof the Reconciliation and Indigenous Higher Education landscapes, both in Australia and globally, with a proven track record of designing, managing, and delivering culturally sensitive, high-profile programs and projects aligned with strategic organisational priorities

If your qualifications or experience look different from what we've described above, but you feel your skills and potential are a match to the capabilities we need, please apply. We are looking for diversity in experience, thought and approach. This role is part of a progressive and supportive team.

Role Requirements:
About Curtin University
Curtin University proudly stands among the top one percent of global universities according to the ARWU 2024 rankings. We are an energetic, dedicated team of academics and professionals working together to provide global solutions through quality graduates and innovative research. Curtin is a welcoming space where integrity, respect for one another, courage, excellence, and impact are essential to everyday life. First Nations people, those identifying as LGBTQIA+, parents, carers, people of all ages, abilities and genders, and people of diverse ethnicity, nationality and faith are encouraged to apply. Our aim is to create a workforce that reflects the diversity of the community in which we live. For more information, please visit our Diversity and Inclusion page - https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-at-curtin/

What We Offer You:
Situated on Whadjuk Nyungar Country, our vibrant Bentley campus includes an art gallery, gym, childcare and medical centre, bus station, accessible parking and endless food options including a supermarket. Aside from the vibrant campus life, we offer more than just a job. Curtin offers a wide range of generous benefits, including additional leave, salary packaging, health and wellbeing services and an array of discounts for retail, travel and much more.

For more reasons to work at Curtin, please visit https://staff.curtin.edu.au/discover-curtin/

Join Us!
If this sounds like your next role, please click APPLY NOW ensuring to attach the following documents:

• Up to date resume
• Cover Letter outlining your interest, experience and addressing the selection criteria for the role (no more than two pages)

If you have any queries in relation to this opportunity or the application process, please contact our careers team on CurtinCareers@curtin.edu.au or 08 9266 9000 (option 3,1), quoting the reference number. Please note applications will not be accepted via this email address.

Applications close: 8.30pm (AWST), Thursday, 15 January 2026.

Late applications or applications received via email will not be considered, and only successful candidates will be contacted.

*Please be aware that Curtin University will be closed following Friday 19th December. The University will reopen on Monday, 5th January. This break will impact all current recruitment processes, and as a result, you may not receive any updates on this process until early January 2026.

Please note we are not accepting applications from recruitment agencies at this time.

Curtin reserves the right at its sole discretion to withdraw from the recruitment process, not to make an appointment, or to appoint by invitation, at any time. We reserve the right to remove the advert earlier than the date on the advert.